A Temperance man continues to search for a new kidney after nearly six years on dialysis.
TEMPERANCE, Mich. — A Navy veteran in Temperance is asking the community for help as he continues a years-long search for a kidney donor.
William Horton III, 59, a Toledo native and Scott High School graduate, has spent much of the past six years attached to dialysis machines, a demanding routine that keeps him alive but limits nearly every aspect of his daily life. He undergoes treatment three days a week — Monday, Wednesday and Friday — for four or more hours at a time.
“It’s hard. People on dialysis don’t talk about it. We just push through,” said Horton. “Three days a week, you’re on dialysis for four, sometimes more hours. It takes over your life.”
Horton’s wife, Shannon, said the treatment schedule has forced the family to put plans on hold and carefully plan life around his medical needs.
“So it’s just really hard, just planning life around it,” she said. “But we’re hoping that soon we’ll get that call.”
Their daughter, Brookelyn Horton, said watching her father battle kidney failure has taken an emotional toll on the family.
“It’s hard sometimes just to see him sick,” she said. “When I still lived at home, it was hard to see him struggle.”
The family recently connected with DOVE, an organization that helps link organ donors with veterans in need. DOVE has assisted by covering some costs and easing the process, but Horton is still waiting for a donor match.
Shannon Horton said that’s why the family decided to share his story publicly, hoping someone in the community may be willing to help.
“If you’re interested in donating, we can make sure you get the information you need,” she said. “It doesn’t have to be to Will — it can be to anyone. DOVE will help guide you through the screening process.”
Despite the uncertainty, the family said they remain hopeful. Brookelyn Horton said her father’s health weighs heavily on her during major life moments.
“My older sister got married and he was able to be there,” she said. “I get nervous sometimes that it won’t happen — but I still have faith that we’ll get a kidney.”
Horton echoed that optimism.
“It’s hard, but hopefully I’ll get a kidney,” he said. “I have faith. I just hope it all works out.”
The family said anyone interested in learning more about kidney donation can contact DOVE to see if they may be a possible match. Additional information can be found here.
